Key Points

COVID-19

• The spread of SARS-CoV-2 is slowing in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, but remains at a high level (1,048 per 100,000 inhabitants, down 7%). The incidence rate is decreasing in all departments, except in Jura and the Territoire de Belfort, where it is increasing by about 5%. The positivity rate has risen by one percentage point to 37%, amid a decline in testing. However, these data should be interpreted with caution due to the July 14 holiday, which may have caused delays in data entry.

• The Omicron variant is circulating exclusively in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (100% of RT-PCR samples sequenced in S28). Screening data suggest that the BA.4/BA.5 sublineages are the overwhelming majority (85%) in the region, except in the west in Yonne and Nièvre (68–78%) and in the northeast (Territoire de Belfort). Interpretation is limited by the small number of sequenced samples available for recent weeks.

• Regarding hospital activity, the number of new hospitalizations and new admissions to intensive care remains stable this week.

• Given the summer holidays and activities that may lead to increased virus transmission, adherence to the combined measures is essential, particularly to protect the most vulnerable populations: it remains necessary to self-isolate if you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19. It is essential for individuals to follow preventive measures, including wearing a mask (in the presence of vulnerable people and in crowded indoor spaces, particularly on public transportation or at large gatherings), handwashing, and frequently ventilating enclosed spaces.

Heatwave Monitoring

• No unusual increase in activity at emergency departments and SOS Médecins clinics in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

• Indicators of heat-related illnesses remain at low levels